I take Humira to manage my Ankylosing Spondylitis.
Last year, I paid $5/mo. for my medication in large part due to the "evil" drug maker giving me a $500/mo. allowance towards my co-pay. My "evil" insurance (BC/BS) picked up the rest.
Humira is a biologic drug that literally "switches off" the inflammation gene which causes the TNF (Tumor Necrosis Factor) to go crazy in my body, causing my spine to go into spontaneous fusion. I was diagnosed with Ankylosing Spondylitis in October of 2010 after four major back surgeries to remove bone spurs, repair a broken and collapsed vertebrae, and to repair several herniated discs between the ages of 22 and 43. Humira for me has been a LIFE CHANGING drug in that I'm not in constant pain, and have been able to lead a somewhat normal life with a few limitations.
I got the call on Friday for my refill, and was informed I must now pay $1,940/mo for the drug because it's been "re-classified." Not only will I *not* be refilling my medication anytime soon, I'll likely be filing for disability in the next six months as the drugs effects on my body begin to wear off and my spine starts spontaneously fusing itself again, further impairing my ability to walk.
Many don't know it yet, but those of us with chronic or ongoing health conditions that require medications like Humira, or simple maintenance medications are getting HAMMERED financially by Obamacare. It's pretty clear to me that Obama and this Government want me, and people just like me to simply DIE despite the fact that I'm a hardworking TAXPAYER (Net Taxes 2012 were $59,762 paid to the Feds and State of Illinois.) One might think they'd actually want to keep me around as a tax slave. Go figure. Thanks Obama! (you worthless POC!)
Can you order it from India? Hate to even suggest it and I have no idea if its safe or an option but might be worth looking into it.
Might look for a country has it cheaper, fly get it and mail or carry it home. Many drugs are a fraction of their cost overseas. IP laws be damned if its a choice between living or not.
That increase is shocking. Look into all possible alternate sources including overseas (re-importation).
TNF inhibitors: infliximab, etanercept, certolizumab pegol and golimumab
A quick search found this site which offers a coupon for Humira. Might be worth printing it out and see what your actual cost would be.